Standing from left to right: vice captain, Andrew Mbeba, second vice captain, Melikhaya Ncube, and captain, Ariel Sibanda
Onsport Reporter
Highlanders has managed to clear US$57 000 in outstanding winning bonuses for players and technical staff, courtesy of businessman, Wicknell Chivayo.
The club paid the winning bonuses amounting for last year and this year, inclusive that due to players who have left the club.
Chivayo donated $250 000 to Highlanders last month as part of a $1 million cash injection to be released to the club in batches over the course of a year.
Bosso captain, Ariel Sibanda confirmed in a media briefing held at Highlanders club offices the players had received the money and they were grateful to the sponsorship from Chivayo.
“I confirm we received the winning bonuses and we are happy and raring to go. I would like to thank Mr (Jabu) Nkomo and also extend my utmost gratitude to Sir Wicknell Chivayo for this gesture. I hope one day he pitches up at Barbourfields to watch us play,” he said.
Businessman Jabulani Nkomo is Chivayo’s cousin and curator of the donation, tasked with the disbursement of thr funds and making the money is used for its intended purpose.
Vice captain, Andrew Mbeba said the payment of the outstanding dues will motivate them as a team.
“We have had our struggles as Highlanders, but for now I think as players we have to up our game because there is motivation,” he said.
Nkomo said this was the first act on their part in the disbursement of the funds and it is his hope the funds will have a positive effect on Bosso across different fronts.
He said they will be periodically updating Highlanders stakeholders when the need arises.
Highlanders chairman, Kenneth Mhlophe expressed gratitude for the gift while treasurer, Nkani Khoza said he was unburdened on several fronts as the donation will ease his cashflow headaches.
